Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a vibrant and aromatic dish that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam with every bite. I first encountered this dish at a local Vietnamese restaurant, where the fragrant lemongrass wafted through the air, enticing diners. Inspired, I learned to make it at home, and it’s become a regular feature in my weeknight dinner rotation. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What sets Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken apart is its balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors combined with the bright freshness of lemongrass. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about convenience. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a homemade meal that feels special and authentic. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and a hit with both kids and adults alike!

“I made this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken for my family, and it was a hit! The chicken was so flavorful and the whole dish came together quickly. My kids even asked for seconds!” – Happy Home Cook

Preparing Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

This delicious dish comes together in just a few simple steps. First, you’ll marinate the chicken, allowing those wonderful flavors to infuse. While that’s happening, prep your vegetables. Then, it’s all about the quick stir-fry—cooking the chicken until it’s caramelized and tender. Finally, you’ll adjust the seasonings to suit your taste and plate it up beautifully!

1. Marinate the chicken to infuse flavors.
2. Sauté onions and chicken together until done.
3. Adjust seasonings for perfect balance.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

What You’ll Need

Gather These Items:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 stalks fresh lemongrass, trimmed and finely minced (or 3 tablespoons lemongrass paste)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely sliced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for milder flavor)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Optional garnish: sliced red chili, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

If you don’t have fresh lemongrass, lemongrass paste works in a pinch. You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option, but keep in mind that the thighs provide a juicier bite!

Directions to Follow

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the sliced onion. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade to the pan.
4. Stir-fry for about 8-10 minutes, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked and caramelized on the edges.
5. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning by adding more fish sauce for saltiness or a sprinkle of brown sugar for sweetness.
6. Plate the chicken, garnishing with sliced chili, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve hot over jasmine rice or vermicelli noodles for a hearty meal!

How to Serve Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

This Lemongrass Chicken shines when served over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice or alongside soft vermicelli noodles. For a colorful presentation, consider garnishing with sliced red chili for heat, fresh cilantro for brightness, and a wedge of lime for a zesty finish. Pair this meal with a refreshing iced green tea or a light lager to complement the flavors.

How to Store

If you have leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken (which is rare because it’s so delicious), allow it to cool completely before storing. Keep the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave; add a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Tips to Make It Perfect

• For an extra depth of flavor, let the chicken marinate in the fish sauce and brown sugar for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Ensure your skillet or wok is hot enough; a hot pan helps to caramelize the chicken quickly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that delicious crust.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this dish! You could add chopped bell peppers or snap peas for extra veggies. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with firm tofu and keep the marinade the same. Craving some spice? Introduce some chili garlic sauce into the stir-fry for an added kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?

The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may require less cooking time and may not be as juicy.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Try out this vibrant Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite flavors and ingredients! Enjoy the journey of cooking this delightful dish at home.

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